The difference between interpreting and translation is that an interpreter translates orally, while a translator interprets written texts.

An interpreter can be booked for a wide range of events where there are language and cultural barriers to effective communication. Interpreters therefore work in settings involving business meetings, conferences, symposia, workshops, presentations, healthcare centres and many other situations.

Costs vary and depend on many factors such as language combination, the length of the booking, the nature of the subject matter, the location and the number of people involved.

Interpreters are usually paid per day if the event lasts longer than 3 hours. Consider booking an interpreter for a minimum of 60 minutes and also allow for travel time and travel expenses. The price includes preparation time.

Translators are paid by the number of words or lines in the source language. Costs depend on the target language, the complexity of the text and the specialisation.

Contact me for a an exact quote.

There are two main modes of interpreting:

1. Simultaneous Interpreting

The interpreter sits in a soundproof booth and orally translates what is being said through a microphone to the audience at the same time as the speaker is giving the speech (with a lag of only a few seconds). This type of specialised interpreting skill is used at conferences and events with a large audience.

2. Consecutive Interpreting

The interpreter listens to the speaker while taking notes and orally translates what has been said when the speaker makes a pause in their speech or after the speech. Consecutive interpreting requires no special equipment but it is time-consuming. Therefore it is better suited for smaller face-to-face meetings or speeches.

Liason interpreting is similar to consecutive interpreting but the main difference is that the length of time spent speaking is much shorter. The interpreter works in two languages to orally translate between two or more speakers of different languages facilitating dialogue at business meetings, interviews, negotiations, at healthcare centres, etc.

Remote interpreting refers to meetings where the interpreter is connected to the discussion via an audio or video link without being physically present at any specific location.

Interpreting is mentally exhausting work so substantial breaks must be given to interpreters every 30-40 minutes in order to preserve the service level.

For simultaneous interpreting the guidelines are a lot stricter in that you should hire two interpreters. In this case interpreters work in pairs taking turns at the microphone every 20 to 30 minutes each.

- Date of the event
- Start/Finish Times
- Place
- Speakers and other participants
- Event type
- Subject matter
- Duration of the event
- Reference Materials

To ensure effective communication the interpreter needs to prepare for the assignment. Please make sure you can provide reference materials ahead of the event and give the interpreter as much background information as possible about your case as well as a copy of the presentation so that they can prepare for the event accordingly.